Elly's Gelato is now scooping at Currumbin.
Elly's Gelato is now scooping at Currumbin.
After a morning of surfing, swimming and soaking up the Gold Coast sun, the logical next step is to cool off with a scoop of something sweet. Luckily for Currumbin locals, Elly’s Gelato has arrived to make beach days even better.
Elly’s Gelato is, at its core, just a couple of mates who love a good beach sesh and sweet treat. Elly’s crew are no strangers to beach days that stretch on forever and love soaking up the kind of magic Gold Coast locals know well. The only thing that kept niggling at them? There was no icy goodness waiting at the end of a surf at Currumbin. Tragic, really. So they did what any sensible coastal crew would do. They fixed the problem.
Elly’s is about one thing: really good gelato. Full stop. The kind you plan your beach day around. The kind that turns “just one scoop” into “okay maybe two”.
Currumbin was always the obvious home. It has everything with surf, sunshine and people who know a good thing when they see it. Gelato was simply the missing piece of the puzzle.
The name Elly’s is a love letter to Elephant Rock, a local landmark that’s been watching over barefoot locals for generations. It’s a nod to old-school Currumbin, to sun-soaked afternoons and a slower, sweeter way of life.
Allow the sea breeze to float you inside where you’ll be charmed by Elly’s retro red-and-white colour palette. The space was brought to life with the help of two close mates and legends of their craft, interior designer Cristen Kershaw from Fuze, and Brand Lyons from New Horizon Homes, who handled the build. The result? A shop that feels nostalgic without trying too hard. Like it’s always been there, just waiting for you.
Now, onto the important stuff: the gelato. This is where Elly’s really scoops above the rest.
The Blood Orange Sorbet is an absolute zinger, bright and wildly refreshing. Pair that with a Chocolate Sorbet scoop and you’ve got a twist on a Jaffa-flavour combo. But they also have a creamy Jaffa flavour that ticks all the boxes.
Peppermint Chocolate Chip and Bubblegum are the ultimate crowd-pleasers (yes, bubblegum, and yes, it slaps), while Salted Caramel and Kinder Surprise bring creamy comfort vibes in every lick. No crazy combos here, just classic flavours done properly.
And for those really steamy days when leaving the house feels like too much (we’ve all been there), Elly’s is soon to launch takeaway tubs on Uber Eats! Because sometimes the best summer day is enjoyed on the couch, spoon in hand.
Elly’s is keeping things simple, proving that you don’t need to reinvent the wheel or the waffle cone to draw people in. All you need is good mates and a properly good ice cream by the beach. And honestly? That’s pretty hard to beat.
Where: 778 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
When: Daily from 10am-8pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Liam McDonald
Stop the surf hangries in their tracks.
Surfers up and down the coast know the raging hunger after a surf. Be it 30 minutes or three hours in the water, those post-surf cravings get us every time.
Here are some of our go-to spots to refuel after a salty sesh. And even if you haven’t been in the water, this list works just as well for anyone chasing a laid-back, post-beach hang feed!
After a morning of chaos surfing the Superbank, you want something to shake off all the drop-ins. Drop in for a feed at long-time local favourite corner tuck shop Little Mali in Rainbow Bay. With all-day brekkie, smoothie bowls, next-level shakes and now an evening taqueria with tacos and nachos, Little Mali is sure to turn any surf into a better one.
Where: 237 Boundary St, Coolangatta
A nook for a quick coffee and pastry to go, Switchfoot in Rainbow Bay is for those on the run after their morning surf. Stocking surf essentials like sunscreen, surf wax, leashes and traction pads, Switchfoot will have you covered in and out of the water.
Where: 237 Boundary St, Coolangatta
A cafe, surf shop and art gallery all rolled into one, Love Street Store in Kirra will have you falling head over bare feet for a post-surf feed. With smoothie bowls and epic toasties for sustenance, you’ll be thinking about breakfast here before you get in the water. If the Superbank sweep is in play, you’ll be able to ride a long wave all the way there.
Where: 1 Churchill St, Coolangatta
As busy as the line-up at the Alley on a weekend, and for good reason, The Salt Mill in Currumbin has continued to delight both locals and out-of-towners for over a decade with their takeaway treats and acai bowls overflowing with wholesomeness. The lines may be long but the coffee is quick which is why surfers keep coming back.
Where: 784 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
For a sit-down feast, Barefoot Barista has found its place in Currumbin with plenty of seating so you can enjoy the food and the view. Serving sweet and savoury eats, there’s something for every surfer including a great post-sunset option, with the cafe transforming into bar Bruce Thursday to Sunday evenings.
Where: Shop 1/794 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Right on the Burleigh Headland, as close to the take-off point as you can get, The Kiosk crew work hard to keep the locals happy and the out-of-towners dropping in at this hole-in-the-wall espresso bar.
Where: 43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
When an epic surf calls for an epic feed, it’s worth the walk to Tarte for freshly baked treats. Bustling with customers, their cabinet of daily delights is always stacked. With bagels and sangas as big as your head, a trip to Tarte is all you need to curb post-surf cravings.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Up the northern end of the coast, Castaway Coffee Bar sits cool under Ocean by Meriton. Open super early for sunrise surfers, a bacon and egg roll followed by a raspberry and pistachio croissant and a specialty coffee is a hunger-busting combo after getting barrelled at Narrowneck. With water views, you can surf-check as you refuel before heading back out.
Where: Ocean Meriton G1/84 The, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Words by Lisette Drew
Start shredding like a pro.
Thinking about levelling up your surfing this summer? Good call. The days are long, the weather’s warm, and the ocean is practically begging you to paddle out.
Surfing might look cool and cruisy, but it’s one of the few sports where no matter how long you’ve been doing it, you’re still a student of the sea.
Not sure where to start? Don’t stress. Below are five ways to build your surf skills, and all the Gold Coast legends who can help get you there.
If you’re keen to fast-track your progress, jump into a surf school. Coaches can spot things you’ll never notice on your own and give you the exact tweaks you need to catch more waves. Group lessons are great for staying motivated, but if you prefer surfing solo, book a couple of private sessions so you’ve got personalised tips to work on.
Some of our fave surf schools are Currumbin Alley Surf School and Surf Easy at Currumbin Alley, Hang Ten Surf Co and Kirra Point Surf School in Kirra, Go Ride A Wave at Coolangatta, Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.
Can’t make it to the beach during the work week? Skating is the next-best thing. The muscle memory and movement patterns translate directly to surfing, so when you finally hit the water again, you haven’t gone backwards. Pizzey Park Skate Park and Pump Track in Miami has 4800 square metres of skateable surface to get you pumping like a pro, or for something more surf-focused, get involved with Surf Lab in Currumbin Waters. Their custom surf-skate bowl, one-on-one coaching and weekend retreats are designed specifically to help you become a more confident surfer in and out of the water.
A bit of land-based training makes a massive difference in-between salty sessions. Strength, flexibility and balance are the holy trinity for surfers. Rhythm Wellness Surfers Yoga in Currumbin Waters is perfect for targeted surf conditioning, while Aqua Sculpt at the JW Marriott Resort is a full-body, on-water workout performed on floating platforms. If you want to build power, stability or pop-up speed, this is your chance.
If you haven’t already added all your surf mates into a group chat, get onto it. Half the battle is showing up and having friends in the water makes every surf session better. Plan weekend missions, celebrate each other’s progress and make it a priority to keep the stoke high. Want an instant community? OneWave is a non-profit surf movement using saltwater therapy and fluro to boost mental health. Their Greenmount crew paddles out every Saturday morning, perfect for anyone who needs accountability with a side of good vibes.
The ocean is always changing, and your surfing will too. The best way to progress is to embrace every session, small waves, big waves, wind, rain, the lot. The more time you spend in the water, the more confident you’ll feel not just in summer, but every season.
Words by Lisette Drew
Prepare to be pampered.
There are few pleasures in life greater than a pamper sesh. Whether it’s a massage, facial, soak sesh or… heck, if it involves sitting/lying down and zoning out, just us sign up!
Fun Fact: Did you know Australia has just been ranked as the most desirable wellness tourism destination by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) 2025 Wellness Survey?! We’re not surprised, given the number of fine-ass day spas on the Gold Coast alone!
Speaking of, here’s a list of some of the most beautiful day spas scattered around the GC, for when your body, mind and soul need a little reset.
Set amongst remnant rainforest in front of a lovingly restored 100-year-old farmhouse, enjoy magnesium hot tubs, spas, plunge pools and saunas in a lush outdoor setting, canopied by a majestic fig tree. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. Combine your bathhouse experience with a wellness treatment from highly skilled massage and beauty practitioners for the best of both worlds.
Our pick: The Ultimate Relaxation, including hot tub, sauna, essential oil massage and bespoke organic facial
Where: 2 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
It’s at the Hilton- do we really need to say more? Their speciality is their unique Journey Enchancements, which are mini treatments that can be added to your existing services or enjoyed on their own. Specially designed for eforea, they introduce guests to unique, commonly unexperienced techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world. Count. Us. In.
Our pick: Renewing Vichy Shower Experience, which increases circulation throughout the body, reducing stress and toxins (it’s their signature treatment for good reason)
Where: 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
With luxurious accents from pillar to post, it’s not hard to see why this Currumbin gem is one of the GC’s most loved wellness centres. Equipped with a salt therapy room, yoga and pilates classes, meditation and sound healing, along with two registered nurses to undertake everything from PDO threads to IV vitamin infusions and cosmetic injections. It’s the ultimate A-Z of beauty and self-care!
Our pick: Salt Therapy – it’s a wonder treatment
Where: 31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Exquisitely appointed with every detail considered, One Spa offers locally inspired rituals and unique water, body, facial, and massage therapies. If you’re unfamiliar with water therapies, think Vichy showers, steam, and jacuzzi soaks —highly recommend any and all. The spa overlooks the peaceful green landscape, making every treatment a complete mind, body and soul experience.
Our pick: Driftaway (because, obviously). It’s 3.5 hours of melting your worries and cares away.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa
High above the Gold Coast, yet just a short scenic drive from the beaches, this hinterland haven is where luxury, calm, and total reset vibes converge. Nestled in panoramic valleys, the Wellness Spa features a hydrotherapy mineral pool, infrared saunas, and a heated infinity lap pool, while a menu of organic facials, body treatments, massages, and more ensures every visit is tailored to bliss.
Our pick: Getaway Spa Package. Enjoy a Himalayan salt back scrub with hot stones, full body relaxing therapeutic massage and 2hrs full use of spa facilities.
Where: 59 Lowry Ct, Mudgeeraba
Spa by JW is the Gold Coast’s ultimate five-star unwind. Housed inside the luxe JW Marriott, this sanctuary of calm is all about soothing, restoring, and spoiling yourself silly. Think six dreamy treatment rooms, a couple’s suite with twin showers and a stone bath, and tranquil pods made for post-massage bliss.
Our pick: Awaken Your Glow: A full-body massage with Aromatherapy Associates oils, Ultraceuticals facial, copper foot bath ritual, acupressure scalp massage, plus sauna and steam access.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Welcome to Earth’s version of heaven. Chuan Spa at The Langham, Gold Coast, delivers luxury wellness in spades, with a holistic approach unique to the prestigious global hotel group. Offering a range of treatments to both in-house guests and non-hotel guests, expect to leave this serene sanctuary relaxed, reconnected, and revitalised. Not sure what treatment to choose? They’ve got a quiz for that.
Our pick: the signature Chuan Harmony Massage, designed to stimulate meridian harmony. This unique mind, body and soul experience combines the therapeutic elements of acupressure with various relaxation massage techniques to induce a deep sense of calm.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
This modern-styled Australian boutique bathhouse and communal rejuvenation space is pure ecstasy. Offering access to two hydrotherapy spas, a custom-built wet steam room, a traditional red cedar sauna, a magnesium plunge pool, a sundeck, and a lounge area —don’t think, just book. You can even hire this place privately for up to 25 people. Sorry, but does that sound like the perfect gal’s day out or what?
Our pick: Massage + Lunch. One hour stay + A 55 min full body holistic massage followed by a two-course plant-based lunch catered by Greenhouse Canteen and Bar, with a complimentary glass of bubbles, mimosa, spritz or kombucha.
Where: 268 Tallebudgera Creek Rd, Tallebudgera Valley
If you think you’ve experienced all the wellness therapies out there, think again. This place is not messing around, with a unique treatment for just about anything. Of course, they have your indulgent massages and facials (excellent), but have you ever heard of sqEEG Brain Mapping? What about Grounded Movement & Gait Analysis, where a functional sports podiatrist, mindset and breathwork coach, will address the impacts of modern living (eg, excessive screen time and prolonged sitting). Then there’s tarot reading, private meditations, Ayurvedic body scrubs, equine therapy, and that’s just the beginning.
Our pick: Restorative Lymphatics. Discover the numerous benefits of this restorative and harmonising therapy.
Where: 192 Syndicate Road, Tallebudgera Valley
Spa day goals, right here. Sitting pretty on Level 4 of Mantra on View, just steps from Surfers Paradise Beach, Ocean Day Spa is where pure bliss meets beachside luxury. Expect award-winning massages, facials, and body treatments using premium European skincare brand Afrodita Cosmetics. Relax, refresh, repeat.Our pick: Indulgence Signature Facial, a rejuvenating facial with an AHA peel, neck and shoulder massage, plus a hand and foot treatment to top it off.Where: Level 4, Mantra on View, 22 View Ave, Surfers Paradise
If you’re all about customisation, this is the spa for you. There’s no need to select a treatment – just make a booking and decide once you’re there! For those who allow time for a 1+hour treatment, enjoy complimentary access to the Hammam-inspired steam room to ease your body and mind into spa nirvana. All treatments include time for a personal consultation and post-treatment recommendations.
Our pick: The Plush Princess therapeutic salt scrub, massage and facial massage.
Where: 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
CIEL Spa blends high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury, perched on level two of the glossy new Mondrian in Burleigh. So, yeah, prepare for Lux AF. It’s the city’s first bio-wellness spa, meaning it’s not your average spa situation, and may be the answer to everything that’s ever made you feel meh. They fuse science-backed treatments with holistic rituals in a space that feels like a warm hug, offering facial, body, and couple rituals, as well as cosmetic treatments.
Our pick: perhaps for a very special occasion- The Augustinus Bader Method Collection. The Method Body 90 Minute Massage, The Method 90 Minute Facial, The Method Head Spa, Superfood Lunch.
Where: Level 2, 3 First Avenue, Burleigh Heads
LAN Bathhouse is a modern oasis designed for ultimate unwinding. With hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and private treatment areas, it’s the perfect escape from city life. Whether you’re slipping in for a solo soak, a couples or a friend-treat, LAN makes it effortless to leave tension at the door and emerge feeling completely renewed and recharged.
Our pick: Relax For Two. 60-minute Relaxation Massage + 60-minute Private Bath + 2 Complimentary Non-alcoholic Drinks.
Where: Level 1, SHOP 102, Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
For those who have dreamed of a rich Moroccan escape, this spa’s for you. Experience Moroccan-inspired luxury right on the Gold Coast, with this traditional Moroccan hammam spa. For those unfamiliar, the hammam spa involves a shower or bath steam, followed by a deep exfoliation with a mitt made with a unique woven fabric. As a result, the body and skin are cleansed of toxins, blood circulation increases, and the immune system is stimulated, thereby better supporting the physical and mental systems.
Our pick: Rejuvenating Royal Dream Hammam. Whole-body exfoliation, rose clay wrap, sea salt foot scrub, and hair oiling.
Where: Shop 1 / 71 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
A haven for relaxation? Found! Elizabeth Luxury Day Spa is a premier day spa in Broadbeach, offering calming therapies in tranquil spaces to leave you feeling deeply rested and rejuvenated. From nourishing facials to rejuvenating massages, the peaceful environment encourages you to take a deep breath, unwind, and fully immerse yourself in a little self-care heaven.
Our pick: Celestial Escape. A soothing reset for busy lives or those wanting a refreshing pick-me-up.
Where: Phoenician Resort: 24-26 Queensland Ave, Broadbeach
Name a better place for a day spa than within the stunning O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. We’ll wait….With million-dollar hinterland views, a trip to O’Reilly’s isn’t complete without a stint here. Indulge in one of the relaxing massages, facials, hot stone therapies, spa or steam room treatments, and enjoy some restorative time alone, or with that someone special.
Our pick: The Lost World Ritual. It’s a splurge…but it includes the lot and will change your life.
Where: 3582 Lamington National Park Rd, O’Reilly
Say hello to the brand-new, luxurious, elemental bathhouse, SOL Elements. Hidden in the depths of Mt Tamborine, SOL is a transformative sanctuary where ancient elemental healing meets modern-day wellness rituals. From the outside, it’s a sculptural, ring-like facility surrounded by nature. Inside, it’s a transformative sanctuary where ancient elemental healing meets modern-day wellness rituals. It’s a complete sensory experience with communal bathing rituals to private retreats and transcendent spa experiences.
Our pick: The Unwind Ritual: Float + Spa Treatment. Floatation Cave 55 mins + Spa Treatment (of your choice) 60 to 125 mins.
Where: Tamborine Mountain Rd & Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain Rd, Tamborine Mountain
Ok, so this is not technically on the Gold Coast, but like Russell Crowe and Nicole Kidman, we’re happy to claim it! Set in the heart of the ‘biggest little town in Australia’, The Banya is a total #mood. The Bathhouse features a tiled lap and three large hot mineral pools hugged by lush foliage and cobblestone pathing. There’s also a wood-fired sauna, a steam room, a cold plunge, five massage treatment rooms, and a rooftop sundeck for post-treatment relaxation. Namaste!
Our pick: Bathhouse and Deep Tissue Massage. 90min bathhouse + 60min massage.
Where: 35-37 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
